In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church: https://onrealm.org/SaintsConstanti/give/memory AND Greek American Rehabilitation and Care Center:https://www.greekamericancare.org/donations

Nancy Canellis, 89, mother of Lou, Peter and George, YiaYia to Julia, Josie, Jackson and Gia, Mother In Law to Monica (Esquitin) & Melissa (Merle) and Chad Morgan and many nieces and nephews died of natural causes Wednesday August 4th while in the care of The Greek American Rehabilitation and Care Centre in Wheeling. Nancy was a native of Chicago's South Side, graduated from High School, received her Bachelor's degree from Mundelein College and earned her Masters degree in Teaching.

 

Nancy was married to George Canellis in 1959. Even though her husband of 44 years passed away back in March of 2003, Nancy wore her wedding ring till her death feeling like the love of her life was always by her side. Nancy, a devoted wife, there for her husband George helping in the family business at Marquette Laundry & Dry Cleaners on Chicago's South Side for almost 50 years.

 

Nancy was a leader and gave her life to helping others. First and foremost, as a Teacher for 38 years in the Chicago Public School System. She also was very philanthropic, involved in numerous Church Organizations, sitting as a President of the St Helen's Womens Philoptochos Society & past President of the Greek Women's University Club, supporting numerous causes including her Church Sts. Constantine & Helen in Palos Hills.

 

Nancy while small in stature was larger than life. Nancy was an avid pianist entertaining crowds in Chicago's famed Orchestra Hall at the age of 18 and sharing her talents in later years with fellow residents at North Shore Place, her home for four years. She attended Mundelein College on scholarship for her magical work as a musician. Nancy also taught piano throughout her life.

 

Nancy was also well known for her extraordinary works as an artist. She had such great passion for painting, her artwork exhibited throughout including the renowned Art Institute of Chicago and annually at Chicago's well known Gold Coast Art Fair.

 

Nancy loved life! While at her North Shore Place Residence, she would tell fellow residents to smile. Every day she worked hard to be the shining light for those suffering with illness or depression.

 

Nancy is predeceased by her husband George, her parents Peter and Angeline (Katsioris) Allas, her sister Mary Kladis & brother William Allas.

 

Visitation Tuesday August 9th from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Maher Funeral Home, 17101 71st Street Tinley Park, Illinois 60477. Trisagion Service 5:00 pm. Friends and Family asked to meet Wednesday morning directly at Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 11025 South Roberts Road Palos Hills, Illinois, 60465. Morning visitation 9:00 am, Funeral Service 10:00 am. Nancy will be laid to rest alongside her beloved George at Elmwood Cemetery.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church: https://onrealm.org/SaintsConstanti/give/memory and Greek American Rehabilitation and Care Center:

https://www.greekamericancare.org/donations.

 

Orrico Kourelis Funeral Services Inc. entrusted with all arrangements. For information www.orricofuneral.com or 815/260-0668.